"High Republic Adventures #4: The Mountain" by Daniel Jose Older

"High Republic Adventures #4: The Mountain" written by Daniel Jose Older, illustrated by Harvey Tolibao and Rebecca Nalty

This was a fun issue with a good deal of introspection from both Zeen and Lula. They're each trying to figure out how they fit in with the bigger picture despite their young age. I love how these characters are developing, learning, and growing--makes for a truly fleshed out and deep read. My only qualm is how quickly things moved action wise, there's not enough time to fully explain what all is going on in regards to the Nihil. And I'm utterly perplexed about the role of the Junk Mavens for the Nihil (read on for more info). Regardless, I'm excited to see what happens next!

We start off at the Republic Outpost on Ord Mantell with Zeen and Lula meditating, Lula trying to teach Zeen a little bit about the Force since the Mikkian is so new to her powers. But they are quickly interrupted by a flurry of activity (see below) as the Jedi believe they've discovered the Nihil Outpost...but it's all a diversion according to Marchion Ro's grand design. Not aware of this reality, the Jedi zoom off to confront the supposed outpost and take down the Nihil just a bit too easily (see below). Yoda knows something is up!

Marchion and his crew are on Quantxi, the Junk Moon, where Junk Mavens that look like birds (see below) are being conscripted into Nihil service. One tries to get away and Marchion sends Krix after her with a weapon that he wants the young boy to use to prove his loyalty.

As I've mentioned in previous reviews of this series, Zeen has finally found where she belongs in joining up with the Jedi. In this issue she says, "You, all the Padawans and Jedi, have made me feel more at home in myself than I've ever felt before." This is so incredibly heart-warming--it always feels so good when you find your people!

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Trivia: 

-Kantam Sy is a human Jedi

-The skirmish that led the Jedi to believe the Nihil Outpost had been revealed is in the Bright Jewel Sector

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Will Zeen find and save Krix? Will Krix give up his hatred of the Jedi? Or will Zeen give up her connection to the Force? Will the Jedi discover the Nihil's location on Quantxi? And what will happen when Lula, Qort, and Farzala join in the fray? I'm eager to find out where this story takes me!